First COVID-19 Case Reported in Local Shelter System

A positive COVID-19 case associated with the Brock Mission Shelter has been reported by Peterborough Public Health and the City of Peterborough on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Otonabee Conservation

The individual — who is not being identified — was already self-isolating away from the shelter when they were tested positive according to the press release.

They have been self-isolating in a motel since the virus’s discovery according to the City of Peterborough.

The test could not detect if it was a COVID-19 variant strain as it was indicated as “low level detected”.

“We are grateful for the efforts of the shelter staff who have been following public health protocols for the last year, screening individuals and monitoring for symptoms to direct people to isolation for testing,“ said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health. “Their dedication to the safety of people who use the emergency shelters was key in this situation.”

This is the only positive case in all Peterborough emergency shelters to date. Shelters are already increasing health measures such as deeper cleaning and extra disinfectant on common surfaces.

Surveillance testing began immediately at the Brock Mission with help of Peterborough Paramedics.

“We’re working together to help protect the most vulnerable in our community,“ said Diane Therrien, Peterborough mayor. “Shelter staff and Public Health quickly responded to this situation to assist this individual and to take the necessary follow-up steps to keep residents and staff safe.”

Engage with us on social media on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Write to us at tips@ptbocanada.com. Sign up for PTBOBuzz newsletter here.